Don't miss
Eating out in Lyon is the best – starve yourself for days in advance in order to be able to make the most of this foodiest of cities.
From Lyon to Porto
Unforgettable Douro & Spectacular South of France
Call us for prices -
you'll never pay more than the price advertised by the cruise line.
From Lyon to Porto
Unforgettable Douro & Spectacular South of France
Call us for prices -
you'll never pay more than the price advertised by the cruise line.
Voyage Itinerary
5 September to 6 September
Setting sail from Lyon
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is one of France's most appealing cities. Its reputation for gastronomic excellence is well deserved, with hundred of wonderful restaurants, from lavish Michelin-starred affairs to family-run joints tucked away down a back alley. What's more, the UNESCO listed historic centre boasts a marvellous ensemble of Renaissance-era buildings, best appreciated from the top of the soaring Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
6 September
France: Mâcon
The little town of Mâcon lies on the west bank of the Saône, at the southern edge of Burgundy, and it’s a great base for sampling the region’s famous wines. A popular excursion is a trip to nearby Beaune, home to the magnificent medieval Hospices de Beaune and its prestigious wine estate.
7 September
France: Vienne
Vienne was an important trading centre during Roman times, and spectacular remnants of this era survive, including a remarkably well preserved temple and a hillside amphitheatre with marvellous views across the red-tiled rooftops. The city also hosts a renowned jazz festival during July, featuring some of the world’s most talented musicians.
8 September
France: Tournon-sur-Rhône
The twin villages of Tournon-sur-Rhône and Tain l’Hermitage sit on opposite banks of the Rhône, around 50 miles south of Lyon. Visit Tournon’s hilltop castle and charming old town, then sample some of Tain l’Hermitage’s excellent wines and the famous Valrhona chocolate.
9 September to 10 September
France: Avignon
The former papal stronghold of Avignon cuts a dramatic figure, perched above the Rhône and ensconced behind towering walls. The Palais des Papes was home to a succession of 14th century pontiffs, and still looms large over Avignon’s atmospheric old town.
11 September
France: Arles
The charming little town of Arles sits at the head of the Rhône delta, on the northern fringe of the sprawling marshlands of the Camargue. It’s a town with a long history, as evidenced by an impressive array of Roman ruins, and it's a great place to sample the essence of Provençal culture.
12 September
France: Viviers
The little town of Viviers, on the right bank of the Rhône, is a delightful place to explore on foot, with its narrow, cobbled medieval streets and elegant cathedral. A lot of history is packed into a small space, including Roman remains and the Renaissance era Maison des Chevaliers.
13 September to 15 September
France: Lyon
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is one of France’s most appealing cities. Its reputation for gastronomic excellence is well deserved, with hundred of wonderful restaurants, and the UNESCO listed historic centre boasts a marvellous ensemble of Renaissance-era buildings.
15 September to 16 September
Portugal: Porto
Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal’s second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance, and is best known as the home of the country’s most famous export, port wine.
16 September to 17 September
Portugal: Entre-os-Rios
Entre-os-Rios means 'between the rivers', situated at the confluence of the Douro and its tributary the Tâmega. From here you can travel into the heart of northern Portugal's Vinho Verde wine region, visit the historic city of Guimarães or enjoy an atmospheric dinner at the Alpendurada Monastery.
17 September to 19 September
Portugal: Régua
Peso da Régua (Régua for short) is the main river port for the vineyards of the Upper Douro Valley, and is the perfect base for exploring the port-wine region. Nearby attractions include the Baroque-style Palacio de Mateus, with its intricate furnishings and beautiful gardens, and the important pilgrimage site of Lamego.
19 September to 20 September
Spain: Vega de Terrón (Salamanca)
Vega de Terrón is the drop-off point for excursions to Salamanca, a beautiful UNESCO-listed city built from golden sandstone. The baroque-style Plaza Mayor is one of the most magnificent squares in Spain, while other highlights include the twin-towered cathedral and the unusual House of Shells.
20 September to 21 September
Portugal: Pocinho
Pocinho is a tiny village with few tourist attractions, but is perhaps most well-known for being the end of the historic Linha do Douro railway line, arguably one of Europe's most scenic railways, winding alongside the Douro for 160km from Porto. Day trips from Pocinho allow you explore Portugal's Douro Valley in depth, from hiking scenic trails to visiting local quintas for tastings.
21 September to 23 September
Portugal: Pinhão
The pretty little town of Pinhão, situated on a bend in the Douro, is all about one thing: wine. The surrounding hills are covered in vineyards, and you’ll have ample opportunity to sample a variety of tipples, including the region’s most famous product, port.
23 September to 25 September
Arriving in Porto
Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal’s second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance, and is best known as the home of the country’s most famous export, port wine.
Our tip
There are a number of port producers that offer tours and tastings, and we can highly recommend Graham’s.
The ship
Scenic Sapphire
- Capacity:
- 149 Guests
- Crew:
- 57 Staff
- Style:
- Relaxed and informal during the day, giving way to an elegant evening atmosphere.
Scenic's pair of 149-guest ships - Sapphire and Diamond - were given a full makeover in 2017, bringing a new level of luxury to the rivers of France.
What we love
Scenic Sapphire and Scenic Diamond offer stylish, spacious accommodation and a luxurious all-inclusive experience. The innovative onboard cooking school, Scenic Cullinaire, is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the flavours of southern France.
inclusions
- All meals
- Premium beverages throughout the day
- A choice of excursions
- WiFi
- Use of electronic bicycles
- Gratuities
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Lyon
We love the Cour des Loges in the heart of old Lyon.
What to do around Lyon
This is a great base to set forth for wine tasting in Beaujolais.
Where to stay in Porto
In the heart of the city the excellent InterContinental Porto - Palacio das Cardosas overlooks the Avenida dos Aliados and is a short walk from Bolhão Market, Ribeira District and the Clérigos Church.
See more of Portugal
For a taste of wild Portugal, set forth to Peneda Geres National Park.
How can we help?
Our frequently asked questions
From cruise tips to travel protection, here are some of our most-asked questions
visit our faqs
Will I save by booking with Mundy Cruising?
Absolutely. You'll save money and time by booking with us rather than directly with the cruise line and enjoy more flexibility in your travel arrangements. We have access to preferential rates and exclusive offers, and we offer expert advice on how to get the best value.
Can you help with pre and post-cruise arrangements?
From flights and transfers to hotels and tours, we can help with all your travel needs to make sure your trip is exceptional. What's more, we are members of ABTA and also offer full ATOL protection, not to mention a 24hr emergency contact, so we offer complete peace of mind.
What are the benefits of a small luxury ship?
Because small ships are able to reach smaller ports of call and provide a higher level of service than their big ship counterparts, we believe that small ship cruising is the very best way to travel. Usually they offer more space per person, and an attentive team to make sure you have the very best experience. Small ship cruising offers the very best of the best.
cruise news
Latest news and travel inspiration
News, trip reports, cruising advice and industry insight brought to you from our expert team.
Why Mundy?
Who we are
Founded in 1970, we have sold more luxury cruises for more years than anyone else in the UK.
Mundy Cruising was the very first cruise specialist in the UK. We have been making the best cruise holidays even better since 1970.
How? Simply by offering our clients more expertise, more personal service, more unique ideas, more fascinating add-ons, more fabulous freebies and more peace of mind.
We're happy to do all of that over the phone. But if you prefer to chat face to face, why not visit us at our comfortable offices on London's High Holborn - we'd be delighted to see you.
